I agree with the break taking....thank goodness we have two dogs (two cats also)....they all require bathroom breaks and attention.....without them I'm afraid I'd be in the same position that you are cjomomma. Even tho you take breaks when you do....do you bend and move body parts to help relieve the pressure and stress? When I take the dogs out I find myself doing things in the yard and garden when seems to help me so very much. I also got the back weight thing that you put over your shoulders with a weight that hits about the middle of your back several years ago. It was pricey but it helps to keep my neck, shoulders and back in alignment.